WHY
Sensory perception may not seem problematic for the architect. In daily life, architects employ a cognitive model largely based on sight, hearing, smell and touch, taking them to be manifested through organs such as the eyes, ears, nose, tongue and skin, and associating the importance of a given sense with the profession practiced through its use.

In the recent years, however, advances in the current research into the functioning of the human body, physical dysfunctions and aging processes affecting both individuals and societies have prompted a more comprehensive evaluation of the issues related to sensory perception, resulting with a critical approach to the functionality and aesthetics of already existing architectural objects, as well as those planned for future development.

RESEARCH RESULT

Apart from the commonly recognized (aesthetic) role of senses, scientific research has highlighted their other functions, such as purposeful and rational control of cognitive processes (opinions, beliefs, planning, imagination, etc.) and human activities, affected by the information gathered from the environment.

The latest studies are also pointing to criteria of sense conceptualization beyond physical organs such as the eyes, ears, skin, nose or tongue (the question of what a sense actually is, or which of human systems of acquiring information about the surrounding world are in fact sensory). These criteria include representation (e.g. movement, shape, distance), stimuli (electromagnetic wave, mechanical pressure, air motion), individual sensory experiences (e.g. tactile, sound, kinetic, affectivity), or neuronal information.

INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE THEMES

The upcoming Senses in Architecture and Urban Landscaping Conference is an event geared towards facilitating a theoretical and practical discussion on:

• How the new theoretical dimensions inform the architect’s and urban planner’s work.
• In what ways, if at all, do they affect our understanding of notions such as “spatial order”, “urban landscape”, “universal architecture”, “accessible architecture”, “education through architecture”, “architecture for children”, “architecture for seniors”, or “cultural heritage”?
• Do architects understand senses in the same way as professionals in other fields do?
• To what extent is understanding of sensory ability and sensory patterns development- and culture-related?
• How do socialization processes impact sensory perception and ability?
• Does space – and cost – efficiency justify altering those patterns?
• Does architectural design adequately address human physical and mental dysfunctions?
• Do national and international policies account for these problems?

SPEAKERS & INSTITUTIONS

Addressing these and similar issues, the conference features as one of its highlights a debate bringing together world-class specialists, including architecture and urban design practitioners and researchers studying the problem of sensory perception and multi-sensory technologies. Also, the involvement of institutions shaping the urban, cultural and artistic landscape, as well as its end-users will provide us with an opportunity to exchange and share various viewpoints and perspectives. It is our goal to make the debate a an event open to and resonating with a much broader public than just conference attendees.